🔗 Share this article No less than 64 Fatally Wounded in Rio de Janeiro's Largest Police Raid on Criminal Groups Community members described the area to a war zone after the raid At least 64 individuals were killed in a security raid against the Red Command gang in the Brazilian city's northern suburbs - the most extensive and fatal action in the region's history. Four law enforcement personnel lost their lives during the police action in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials said. Over 80 suspects were taken into custody. Approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers participated in Tuesday's operation Violent conflicts erupted when approximately 2,500 law enforcement officers moved in on Tuesday early hours. The Red Command countered with gunfire, igniting obstacles and dropping bombs from drones, police representatives stated. The United Nations human rights body said it was "shocked" by the police operation, demanding "prompt and effective investigations". Mission Consequences The slum neighborhoods near the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of a major organised crime groups. Government representatives stated no less than 50 of the fatalities were "indicated by police as suspected of being criminals". Many residents were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire. Local Reaction Community members have described the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "war zone" since the mission commenced. Transport routes stay blocked across the area. Criminal Expansion The Red Command group have been expanding their influence in the area, increasing drug trafficking routes and dominance over the slum communities. Security forces stated over 200kg (441lb) of illegal substances were confiscated in the raid, along with dozens of firearms. Operation Background The joint operation by civil and military police was preceded by a extended probe. Numerous alleged criminals are thought to be members of a faction from the Pará state who are currently hiding in Rio de Janeiro. Broader Context Large-scale police operations are not uncommon in the South American nation before major international events in the country. The United Nations climate conference the climate conference is set to occur in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.